Overview & Reviews

Back in the 1990s, the Nissan Maxima was ideally positioned as a bridge between midsize family sedans and out-of-reach European sport sedans thanks to its powerful V6, upscale interior and catchy "Four-Door Sports Car" marketing tagline. These traits, along with Nissan's continual improvements, ensured the Maxima loyal followers and strong name recognition.

Since that time, other automakers have targeted the Maxima's niche and brought out excellent competing models. For a little while, the Maxima struggled to keep up. The current-generation Maxima, however, is again a compelling choice if you're looking for a sedan that provides both performance and luxury.

Current Nissan Maxima
The Nissan Maxima is a midsize sedan that packs a 290-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine. Sending the engine's power to the front wheels is a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

There are two available trim levels: S and SV. The base-model S is pretty well equipped, with a standard features list that includes amenities like a sunroof, keyless ignition/entry, dual-zone automatic climate control and a full complement of safety features. SV models pump up the luxury with features like xenon headlights, leather upholstery and a touchscreen interface with a USB/iPod interface.

A pair of packages available on the SV allows buyers to equip their Maxima with either a wealth of luxury/convenience items (Premium) or sportier performance/appearance items (Sport). To either of these, the Technology package adds a number of high-tech features. This all-or-nothing packaging system means the Maxima can get expensive very quickly.

Despite this, our editors have praised the current Nissan Maxima for its powerful V6 engine and well-tuned suspension. It also offers a high-quality interior and many premium features that make it feel like an entry-level luxury car. However, it's priced like an entry-level luxury car, too, which may be a turn-off to those who'd appreciate a luxury badge to match.

Used Nissan Maximas
The current, seventh-generation Maxima debuted for the 2009 model year. Other than slight styling tweaks and variations in standard and optional equipment, it's effectively been unchanged since.

The previous, sixth-generation model spanned 2004-'08. This Maxima was longer, wider and more powerful than earlier models, though it struggled to stand out against the competition.

Two trim levels were offered during this generation: SE and SL. With a slightly stiffer suspension, the SE was the sportier of the two. Standard features included 18-inch wheels, an eight-speaker CD stereo, keyless entry and one-touch up-down front windows. The more luxury-oriented SL offered 17-inch wheels, softer tuning, wood interior trim, heated leather seats, HID headlights and a 320-watt Bose audio system.

Changes were minimal throughout this model's run, so interested shoppers needn't fixate on a particular year. There was a transmission change, however. Maximas from 2007 and 2008 featured a CVT, while earlier models came with either a five-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual. Earlier Nissan CVTs were disappointing, but the Maxima's CVT worked quite well. The V6 offered by the more recent models in this generation boasts 255 hp, while older models list a higher rating (265). This is the result of a new power rating procedure enacted in 2007. Actual engine performance was unchanged.

In our reviews, we determined that the sixth-generation Nissan Maxima offered better power, comfort and interior space compared to other V6-powered, front-drive midsize sedans. This generation Maxima's driving dynamics didn't impress like some other competitors, though. Fit and finish and materials quality were also hit and miss. If you're shopping for a used car in this age range, the Maxima might be worth a look. But we'd also recommend the Acura TSX and VW Passat.

Fifth-generation Nissan Maximas were available from 2000-'03. Key improvements over earlier models were a smooth-revving 222 hp from the standard 3.0-liter V6, a boost in rear-seat legroom and an available 200-watt Bose audio system. At the time, our editors were still impressed with the car's power and interior room but were increasingly skeptical of its value. Further upgrades in 2002 included a bump in displacement (3.5 liters) and power (255 hp) to help keep the Maxima at least marginally ahead of Nissan's V6-powered Altima sedan.

Cars built for the 1995-'99 model years constitute the fourth generation. For this Maxima, Nissan added length, improved the quality of the interior and introduced a new 190-hp all-aluminum V6 for all trim levels, which was arguably the gold standard in its day for responsiveness and refinement. Its handling wasn't quite as responsive as the previous version and its styling wasn't very well received, but it was still very popular given its desirable combination of utility, performance and luxury.

The third-generation car was built for the 1989-'94 model years. Nissan was enjoying a product renaissance at the time, and this was the first Nissan Maxima with true sporting credentials. Unlike other Japanese midsize sedans, the Maxima came with a V6 only and an optional manual transmission. Early versions had a 160-hp V6; a 190-hp engine became available in 1992 for the Maxima SE. A second-gen Maxima was available from 1985-'88.

The Maxima is one of Nissan's most historic vehicles in the U.S. market. Known originally as the Datsun 810, it officially became Maxima in 1982 -- also the year that the Datsun brand began its metamorphosis into Nissan.

User Reviews:

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  Speakers - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By mikey - February 27 - 10:00 am

  The left speaker on the 2002 maximas is defective from the factory. It works intermittently and is very annoying, dont replace with another Nissan speaker. It doesnt solve the problem replace with and after market speaker only, the system will work like new. Also rear suspension very giggly on high speed sharp turns causing wheel hop which might cause a crash.

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  Nice Car - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By Roger Chambers - February 27 - 10:00 am

  Well, this car is a good car. Two years and 60,000 miles later I can say this is a pretty sturdy car. If youre expecting BMW/Benz/Infiniti quality then youll be disappointed. This is one of the best cars one the more affordable side of the pocket. Pros: A lot of power, easy maintenance (oil change and big services). I enjoy the IntelliKey system. The turn illumination is also really nice. Cons: To experience the power is lose a lot of gas. The build seems flimsy (but is still deceptively sturdy). The car gets the job done and is a nicer way to get from point A to point B than many alternative.

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  2013 Nissan Maxima needing new Engine? - 2013 Nissan Maxima
  By shellyh1 - February 25 - 4:30 pm

  For 5k miles, we absolutely loved our 2013 Maxima SV Premium Tech Package till it left us stranded in the middle of no where. Apparently, the timing chain came off. We are waiting for the dealership to put in a brand new engine. The dealership we purchased it from was so kind to offer me 28K on a car I purchased 3 months ago for 35K.

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  fun with $$ - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By scotto - February 23 - 7:43 pm

  had the maxima 2 weeks and its performed beyond my expectations. opted for the cloth interior SE and my only problem is with the velcro like seats that really hold you in place even at really slow speeds. seats are comfortable though and the engine is so sweet.

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  Great car!!!!!!!!!!! - 1997 Nissan Maxima
  By Swifty1 - February 23 - 2:00 am

  reliable, responsive, powerful, and still good looking after 7 years, Much better than the 2004 which I just test drove. I am looking for an SUV now, and I will miss many things about this car!

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  Best car Ive ever owned - 1997 Nissan Maxima
  By Maximalover - February 23 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned American, German, Japanese and Swedish cars, and without question my 1997 Maxima SE is the most reliable of all. In 45,000 miles we literally had one part that malfunctioned under warranty, and other than standard service it has never been in the shop. Its a great car that family and friends have asked to buy, but were not letting go.

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  beware: research before you buy - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By dan benshoff - February 23 - 2:00 am

  The car is fun to drive. Plenty of power and looks great. However, within the first month the driver side door handle broke. I had to take it back because the vent in the back seat area poors cold air on to the passengers feet regardless of the setting up front. The technician chalked this up to "poor design" -- to much distance the air has to travel in the duct work. The center console is poorly designed. Awkward buttons and settings. The trip computer doesnt tell me how many miles I have in my tank when it hits the "e" mark. Isnt that when you really want to know? Overall, I am pretty unhappy with the car. I expected more from Nissan at this price.

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  Great decision - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By Max effect - February 21 - 10:00 am

  This Maxima has brought me nothing but joy. Reliable with the minor exception of a left front CV boot which the dealer replaced for free when I bought it. Other than that nothing! Ive changed the oil every 3000 miles and it performs almost as new! G-teched 0- 60=6.9 at 91000 miles! Great ride. Long wheelbase=great comfort,especially on long trips. Turns that belies its size. Problem- mid-corner bumps at high speed causes rear hop due to rear torsion beam suspension. Comfy in front/back for 5. Averaged 26mpg/50% city/2 years. Problem-"requires" 91 octane. I highly recommend it as a stress free, fun car... good luck!

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  Yeah CMon - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Jacksota - February 21 - 10:00 am

  The vehicle is the best value out there. Sportscar ride with a lot of power. Much more roomy than other cars in its class. Great trunk space as well.

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  2004 Nissan Maxima Elite a reliable vehicle - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By B.O. - February 20 - 10:16 pm

  Pros: Original, one owner car indicates the Elite, which is discontinued, is a loaded top of the line model with 4 bucket seats. Front wheel drive oversteer is disconcerting. Car purchased in June 2003 when model went on sale. A couple of factory flaws and several recalls all satisfactorily resolved within first two years. List of accessories equal to a vehicle costing at least $20k to $30k more. Will buy a RWD vehicle next time. Cons: Steering wheel entertainment controls wired incorrectly since new; remain uncorrected to date. A minor nuisance. Sunroof switch has become inoperable and requires replacement. This is a very cheap part and represents the required installation of the FOURTH switch since car was new. Remains uninstalled. Drivers power door lock is periodically inoperable from key FOB. Power lock is becoming worn out.